CourseDescriptions
AP CAPSTONE | AP Capstone is built on the foundation of a new, two-yearupperschoolcoursesequence AP Seminar and AP Research and is designed to complement and enhance the in-depth, discipline-specific study provided through AP courses It cultivates curious, independent, and collaborative scholars and prepares them to make logical evidence-based decisions. The AP Capstone courses combine scholarly practice with academic intensity. AP Capstone was developed in response to feedback from institutions of higher education. The two AP Capstone courses, with their associated performance tasks, assessments, and application of research methodology, complement the rigor of AP courses and exams by equipping students with the power to analyze and evaluate informationwithaccuracyandprecisioninordertocraftandcommunicateevidence-basedarguments.
BenefitsofAPCapstone:
● Fosterstheresearch,argumentation,andcommunicationskillsthatareatthecoreofcollegereadinessand essentialforlifelonglearning.
● ProvidesasettingtobuildontheknowledgeandrigorouscourseworkofAPinaninterdisciplinaryformat.
● Offersstudentsauniqueopportunitytodistinguishthemselvestocollegesanduniversities
● Offersaflexiblecurricularcontentmodelwithroomforcreativityandstudentinput
● AffordsCapeFearAcademythedistinctionofofferingarigorous,widelyrecognizeddiplomaprogram
● Helpsidentifystudentswhoarepreparedtoentercollegewiththeresearch,writing,andcollaborationskills necessaryforsuccessfulcollegecompletion
● Providesconsistent,externally-validatedmeasuresofstudentability
● Demonstratesstudentresearchandwritingabilitiesthrougha5,000-wordscholarlyresearchpaper
AP Capstone Diploma | Students who earn scores of 3 or higher in AP Seminar and AP Research and on four additional APExamsoftheirchoosingreceivetheAPCapstoneDiploma™ Studentswhoearnscoresof3orhigher in AP Seminar and AP Research but not on four additional AP Exams receive the AP Seminar and Research Certificate™. The award is also acknowledged on any AP score report that is sent to colleges after the award has beenconferred.
APSeminar
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately,thecourseaimstoequipstudentswiththepowerto analyzeandevaluateinformationwithaccuracyandprecisioninordertocraftandcommunicateevidence-basedarguments.
Requirements Civics&Economics Yearcourse-1.00credit
APResearch
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
AP Research allows students to deeply explore an academictopic,problem,orissueofindividualinterest.Throughthisexploration,students design, plan and conduct a year-long research investigation to address a research question. In the AP Researchcourse,studentsfurthertheir skills acquired in the AP Seminar course by understanding research methodology; employing ethical research practices; and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information as they address a research question. Students explore their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of the development of their scholarly work in a portfolio. The course culminates in anacademicpaperof approximately 4000–5000 words (accompanied by a performance or exhibition of product where applicable) andapresentationwithanoral defense. All information provided by https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-capstone RequirementsAPSeminar Yearcourse-1.00credit
COMPUTING, INNOVATION & DESIGN | The Computing, Innovation, and Design Department provides students with the current tools, knowledge, and space necessary to enhance critical thinking, analytical decision making, and information gathering useful for academic success and personal growth as a 21st century learner Students take 1 year of on-level electives prior to honors enrollment
IntroductiontoComputing,Innovation,andDesign(OfferedinFall)
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
This course invites students to dive into the world of digital creation and problem-solving. Students will explore the fundamentals of 3D modeling & printing, using software like Onshape and TinkerCAD, to bring their designs to life. They will also engage with the exciting world of robotics through the VEX Base Bot builds & challenges, developing a practical understanding of basic engineering principles. Additionally, the course includes an introduction to SketchUp, aversatiletoolforcreating,modifying,andsharing3Dmodels.Thiscourseis designedforstudentswhoarecuriousabouttechnologyandeagertoexploreitscreativepotential.
Requirements NA
AppliedComputing,Innovation,andDesign(OfferedinSpring)
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
This advanced coursebuildsonfoundationalskillsincomputing,focusingonpracticalapplicationsandinnovativedesign.Studentswilldelve into data analysis & report building, utilizing the powerful tools available in the Google Workspace to interpret data and present findings effectively The course also includes applied 3D modeling & printing, encouraging students to undertake purposeful and sophisticated 3D printing projects. Further, students will enhance their robotics skills with VEXClawbot&IntakeBuilds,tacklingmorecomplexdesignsand functions. The capstone of the course is the Innovation Showcase, a final project wherestudentsconceptualize,design,andpresentaunique technological solution or innovation, integrating the skills and knowledge they've acquired throughout the course. This course is ideal for studentswithapassionfortechnologyandadesiretoapplytheirskillsincreativeandpracticalways.
Requirements CompletionofIntrotoCID
IntrotoRobotics
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
IntroductiontoroboticsutilizesVexroboticskitsandeventuallyintroducesstudentstoFIRSTroboticssothattheyarepreparedforjoiningthe robotics team, if interested. Students will learn basic fundamentals of physics required to move robots while solving problems using their design. Programming will be done in block coding and the course assumes students have no prior understanding of computerlanguagesor buildingexperience.
Requirements NA
Semestercourse-.50credit
Entrepreneurship:ProductDesignandFabrication
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Students in this course will complete one semesterofproductdesignusingCAD,3dprinters,laserengraving,lasercutter,vinylcutters,CNC routers, and more to create prototypes for product design. Once prototypes have beencreatedinclassstudentswilllearntheentrepreneurial steps needed to take that prototype and turnitintoabusiness,aswellasthestepstohavetheirproductmanufacturedandmassproduced. By the end of the semester students will have created at least 3 unique product conceptsutilizingdifferenttoolsanddesigntechniquesandhave theknowledgetoonedayusetheseskillstostarttheirownbusiness.
RequirementsNA Semestercourse-.50creditorfullyear1credit
A.I.andMachineLearningforEveryone
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the world, from virtual assistants and recommendation systems to self-driving cars and creative art generation. This course introduces students to the fundamentals of AI, machine learning, and their real-world applications—without requiring prior coding experience. Students will explore AI concepts through hands-on projects, ethical discussions, and visual programming tools like Teachable Machine, Scratch, and Google’s AIExperiments.Asstudentsprogress,theywilltransitioninto beginner-friendlycodingusingPythonandAIlibrariessuchasTensorFlowandOpenAI’sAPIs.
Requirements NA
Biotechnology
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
This course is designed to giveanoverviewofcurrentdevelopmentsinthefieldofbiotechnologyaswellastheethicalconsiderationsaround these developments. Students will develop an understanding of the molecular processes involved in many applications as well as the lab techniques involved in these applications. Molecular processes include basic biochemistry, genetic engineering using CRISPR, Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and the use of restriction enzymes. Major topics include Applications in Medicine - testing and treatment ofdiseases,ApplicationsinAgriculture-useofgeneticmodificationsandcloningtomakefoodcheaperand reduce the impact on the environment, Other Applications in Environmental Impact-fightingclimatechange,reducingwaste,andremoving toxins, and Applications in Industry including the use of enzymes in a variety of fields, artificial intelligence, synthetic organisms, and bioinformatics(usingcomputerstoprocesslargeamountsofbiologicaldata).
Requirements Biology
Note: This course is cross-listed in the Science department
DigitalVideoandBroadcasting
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
DigitalVideoandBroadcastingwillallowyoutoexperiencelifeinfrontofandbehindthecameraduringalivebroadcastnewsprogram. You will learn to use industry standard video editing tools to create short news clips that can be a part ofthenewscastaswellas workwithlive streaming software that will allow you to overlay text, graphics, and video as well as key in backgrounds live. During class, you will also workwithteleprompters,AVstreamingboards,greenscreens,andmoretoproduceaprofessionallookingbroadcast.
RequirementsNA
Note: This course is cross-listed in the Art department
IntroductiontoEngineering&Physics
Semestercourse-.50creditorfullyear1credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Thiscourseisdesignedforanystudentwishingtolearnmoreaboutthefieldofengineeringandsomeofthefundamentalconceptsfrom variousengineeringdisciplines. Ageneralknowledgeofengineeringandanumberofdesignprojectsemphasizingteamwork,problem solving,anddecisionmakinginengineeringdesignandphysicsprincipleswillbeincorporatedthroughoutthecourse.Thecoursewilldevelop yourknowledgeofgeneralphysicsandfundamentalengineeringskillstoincludecomputeraideddesign(CAD),mechanicaldrawing,the engineeringdesignprocess,trussandjointanalysis,engineeringeconomics,andengineeringethics,aswellasrobotics. Studentswillbe requiredtopresentdesignsandprojectsusingvariouscommunicationtechniques.Acoursedesignprojectwillincludetheengineeringdesign processfromconcepttofabrication;consequently,studentswillbecertifiedinthesafetyandshopprocedureswiththewoodworkingshopin theInnovationDesignCenter. ThiscourseisarequiredcoursefortheEngineeringCertificateProgram.
Requirements EnrolledinAlgebra2orhigher Yearcourse-1.00credit
Note: This course is cross-listed in the Science department.
APComputerSciencePrinciples
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, theInternet,cybersecurityconcerns,and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles also gives students the opportunity to use currenttechnologiestocreatecomputational artifacts for both self-expression and problem solving. Together, theseaspectsofthecoursemakeuparigorousandrichcurriculumthataims tobroadenparticipationincomputerscience.
Requirements NA Yearcourse-1.00credit
APComputerScienceA/Javascript
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a first-semester, college-level course in computer science. The course introduces students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem solving, design strategies and methodologies, organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and socialimplicationsofcomputing. The course emphasizes both object-oriented and imperative problem solving and design using Java language. These techniques represent proven approaches for developing solutions that can scale up from small, simple problems to large, complex problems. The AP Computer ScienceAcoursecurriculumiscompatiblewithmanyCS1coursesincollegesanduniversities.
Requirements SuccessfulcompletionofAPCSP Yearcourse-1.00credit
AdvancedTopicsinComputerScience
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
This course is designed only for students that have successfully completed both AP CSP and AP CSA and have a high interest inpursuing computer science. Students will dive deeper into aspecificfieldofcomputersciencewiththegoalofproducingaprofessionalproductbythe end of theyear.Throughouttheyearstudentswillworkwithcommunityleaders,mentors,andprofessionalsinthefieldrelatedtotheirchosen topic to develop their app, product, website, etc. In addition, students will learn more about the foundations for artificial intelligence and cybersecurity Note: An application must be completed explaining the student’s product idea before final approval can be given for this class. Requirements 90inAPCSPandAPCSA&requiredapplication Yearcourse-1.00credit
ENGLISH|TheUpperSchoolEnglishDepartmentatCapeFearAcademystrivestoprovidestudentswiththeskills they need to be effective thinkers and communicators in our modern world. By centering our curriculum around essential questions that weallfaceinourlives,studentsareencouragedtoformrealtexttoself,texttotext,andtext to world connections Students learn how to make these connections by reading critically,speakingeffectively,and bywritingfluently
English DepartmentCoreCurriculum(4creditsrequired)
English9
RecommendedGrade(s) 9
This course is designed to introduce students to literature on a high schoollevelbyutilizingavarietyoftexts.Beyondwrittentexts,students learntothinkcriticallyaboutmedia,popularculture,andotherformsofcommunication.Inaddition,studentslearnhowtowriteinresponseto multiple rhetorical situations and plan and compose effective argumentative, analysis, and evaluative essays. Class discussion is an integral part of the course; students are expected to participate every day both informally and through formal structures like debates and seminars. Students will refine close-reading skills and build a stronger vocabulary to move beyond the literal meaning of texts and increase the complexityoftheiranalysis.
Requirement:completionofEnglish 8
HonorsEnglish9
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9
This course is designed to introduce students to literature on a high schoollevelbyutilizingavarietyoftexts.Beyondwrittentexts,students learntothinkcriticallyaboutmedia,popularculture,andotherformsofcommunication.Inaddition,studentslearnhowtowriteinresponseto multiple rhetorical situations and plan and compose effective argumentative, analysis, and evaluative essays. Class discussion is an integral part of the course; students are expected to participate every day both informally and through formal structures like debates and seminars.Students willrefineclose-readingskillsandbuildastrongervocabularytomovebeyondtheliteralmeaningoftextsandincreasethe complexityoftheiranalysis.Studentswillbeexpectedtoworkwithagreaterdegreeofindependenceastheybuildskillsneededforsuccessin APEnglishcoursesin11th and12th grades.
Requirements:Inconsultationwithmiddleschoolfaculty,placementisdeterminedbasedonEnglish8performance(typically90orabove) andstudentERBscores.
Yearcourse-1.00credit
English10
RecommendedGrade(s) 10
More than only the studyoflanguage,English10isathinkingandcommunicationscourse.Bycenteringourstudyaroundessentialquestions that we all face in our lives, students are encouraged to form real text to self, text to text, and text to world connections. We will focus on learning how to communicate these connections and ideas effectively while writing and speaking. By readingtextsrangingfromtheancient world to modern day, students must learn to find the reading strategy that works for them whether reading a brief articleoramoredifficult piece. A large focus of the course is also becoming a strong close reader by developing an understanding of how tone and language affect thematic understanding. Students will also develop a greater word and syntaxawarenessbybuildingacumulativevocabularylistthroughout the year and by learning to recognize andavoidcommonsentenceerrors.Tohelppreparestudentsforthedemandsofthe21stcenturyworld, thiscoursewillalsoemphasizestrongcollaborationandtheeffectiveuseoftechnology Requirements: completionofEnglish9orHonorsEnglish9
HonorsEnglish10
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10
More than only the study of language, Honors English 10 is a thinking and communicationscourse.Bycenteringourstudyaroundessential questions that we all face in our lives, students are encouraged to form real text to self, text to text, and text to world connections.Wewill focus on learning how to communicate these connections and ideas effectively while writing and speaking. Though similar in approach to English 10, honors students will also read several additional – and often more challenging – texts and be required to move at a more rapid pace. Honors studentsarealsoexpectedtobecapableofmoreindividualresponsibilityinbalancingthedemandsofworkoutsideofclass. By reading texts ranging from the ancient world to modern day, students must learn to find the reading strategy that works for them whether reading a brief article or a more difficult piece. A large focus of the course is also becoming a strong close reader by developing an understanding of how tone and language affect thematic understanding. Students will also develop a greater word and syntax awareness by building a cumulative vocabulary list throughout the year and by learning to recognize and avoid common sentence errors. To helpprepare students for the demands of the 21st century world, this course will also emphasize strong collaboration and the effectiveuseoftechnology Students pursuing honors level workwillstrivetomorecomplexlyandeffectivelymasteralloftheseskillstopreparethemforAPlevelwork in11th and12th grade.
Requirements: 88(B+)orhigherinHonorsEnglish9,93(A)orhigherinEnglish9
English11/12:RhetoricandVoice-SpeakUp!
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
Students in English 11/12: Speak Up will write analytically, persuasively, and creatively as they develop informed opinions on questions of contemporary relevance and value.This course is about learning how to find and develop your voice as a writer, speaker, and citizenofthe world. Speak Up students will focus on argument and rhetoric while reading texts that explore essential questions of power and protest. Through writing, speaking, andcreatingmultimediaprojects,studentswillcontinuetohonetheirskillsinliteraryanalysisbutwillalsodevote a significant portion of their time to analyzing works of non-fiction. Building on critical understandings from previous coursework,English 11/12:SpeakUpwillalsoenablestudentstosharpentechnologicalandcollaborativeskillstobetterpreparethemtoexpressthemselvesclearly andeffectivelyincollegeandbeyond.
Requirements:completionofEnglish10orHonorsEnglish10
APLanguageandComposition
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
The Advanced PlacementLanguageandCompositioncourseisdesignedtoofferambitiousstudentsachancetoaccessacollege-levelEnglish class while still in high school. This unique course focuses primarily on the study of nonfiction works by American authors, including memoirs, essays, and articles fromavarietyofsourcesandtimeperiods.Studentswillexaminethewriter’scraft,examiningstructure,syntax, diction, tone, imagery and other rhetorical devices. By scrutinizing the methods authors use to write, as well as recognizing overarching patterns of thought (like archetypes, motifs,symbols,andthemes),studentswillanalyzewritingfromtheperspectiveofthewriter,ratherthan the reader Inadditiontoreadingandverbalanalysis,greatemphasisisplacedonwritingcogently,concisely,andclearly,andstudentspractice synthesis of different points of view and opinions in order to fashion their ownarguments,therebydevelopingtheirownvoices.Studieswill include analysis of visual media and argumentation and persuasion, including logical Fallacies. Designed for students who possess self-motivation and maturity, AP Language prepares studentstoreadwidely,analyzewithconfidence,writeinavarietyofmodes,andcreate, defend, and refute written, visual, and spoken arguments. NOTE: A PSAT critical reading score of 55 or higher is also recommended for successinthiscourse.
Requirements:88(B+)orhigherinHonorsEnglish10,93(A)orhigherinEnglish10orEnglish11/12:WriteNow Yearcourse:1.00credit
APLiteratureandComposition
RecommendedGrade(s) 12
The AdvancedPlacementLiteratureandCompositioncourseisdesignedtoofferambitiousstudentsachancetoaccessacollege-levelEnglish class while still in high school. The course enables students, through close reading, to deepen their understanding of the way writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure for their readers. Students will consider structure, style, and theme in a varietyofworks,as well as elements of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. AP Lit. requires reading works from a variety of genres and periods—from the 16th to the 21st century; thus students learn to consider historical and literary context and to gain comfort in approaching seemingly dauntingliterarypassages.Thecourseisarrangedintounits,eachencompassedbyanEssentialQuestion,andeachcenteredaround two-three literary texts, to be supplemented with disciplinary texts. As we segue into real 21st-century learning, we will embrace both the technology heretofore unavailable to us and the project-based, student-centered practices that blend learningintheclassroomwiththeworld outsideoftheclassroom.NOTE:APSATcriticalreadingscoreof55orhigherisrecommendedforsuccessinthiscourse.
Requirements: 88(B+)orhigherinAPLanguage,93(A)orhigherinEnglish11/12:WriteNow Yearcourse-1.00credit
FINE
ARTS | The Fine Arts Department gives students at Cape Fear Academy a chance to discover and refine a wide variety of artistic skills. Students have a wide range of performing art, visual art,anddigitalartsclassesfrom which to choose, with honors and AP options available in many subjects. Whether a student is a beginner looking for an entry level experience, or advanced and looking for a more challenging curriculum, there are dozens of options in a variety of disciplines to suit most artistic needs. Students take 1 year of on-level Arts electives prior to honors enrollment; honors classes require teacher approval.
VisualArts
2-DFoundations
This course introduces students to basictechniquesindrawing,painting,andprintmakingwhileimprovingobservationskills.Thecurriculum covers various mediums; pencil, charcoal, pastel, ink, marker, collage, acrylic paint, watercolor, and relief print.Emphasiswillbeplacedon design and spatial illusion (depicting a three-dimensional form on a two-dimensional surface). The student will becomeacquaintedwiththe elements of art (line, shape, form, texture, color, andspace)andprinciplesofdesign(pattern,rhythm,emphasis,movement,balance,contrast andunity)astheyapplyartwork.
Requirements NA
3-DFoundations
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
This course introduces students to basic techniques in sculpture and ceramics. The curriculum explores clay, plaster, paper-mache, metal, wood, fiber, and found objects. Students will experiencebothadditiveandsubtractiveprocesses(building,casting,andcarving).Inceramics, students will master basic hand-building techniques (pinch, coil, slab), and move on to simple wheel construction. They will experience all aspects of clayworkfrompreparationoftheclaytodecoratingandglazing.Thestudentwillbecomeacquaintedwiththeelementsofart(line, shape, form, texture, color, and space) and principles of design (pattern, rhythm emphasis, movement, balance, contrast, and unity) as they applytosculptureandceramics.
Requirements NA
CeramicsandSculpture
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
This class will provide an opportunity for students to continue their studies in three-dimensional mediums on amoreadvancedlevel.Under the guidance of the teacher, students will devote a minimum of three weeks to the potter’s wheel and develop and complete six to eight projects.Studentsmaytakethisclassmultiplesemesters.
Requirements 3-DArtFoundations
Drawing&Painting
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
This class will provide an opportunity for students to continue their studies in drawing and painting on a more advanced level. Under the guidance of the art teacher, students will develop and complete 6-8 projects. Unitsofstudyincludestilllife,portraiture,figures,perspective, landscape,andabstraction.Studentsmaytakethisclassmultiplesemesters.
Requirements 2-DArtFoundations
Semestercourse-.50credit
APArtandDesign:DrawingConcentration
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12 or2-DArtandDesignConcentration
AP Art and Design is for highly motivated students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art. It is a year-long course. Students are required to complete four assignments over the summer. Thedigitalportfolio,consistingof15individualworks,wasdeveloped and submitted along with fivephysicalworkstoAPCentralinearlyMay APArtandDesignisacollegelevelcourse.Asinanycollegelevel course, it is expected that students devote considerable time beyond the scheduled periods to keep pace with the assignments. Students are responsible for the upkeep, management, and digital documentation of their work. It is highly recommended that students complete a full range of high school art courses before considering the significantly more rigorous AP Art andDesign. Studentsmayearncollegecreditby scoring well on the portfolio assessment. The portfolio is assessed by AP Central onthequalityandsophisticationoftheartworkitself. This course may be offered in alternating years.
Requirements Teacherapproval;2-DArt,DrawingandPainting(oneormoresemesters).Yearcourse–1.00credit
Woodworking&Design(OfferedSpring)
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Woodworking & Design introduces students to the art, science, and craft of both modern and traditional woodworking. Students willlearn about the traits and characteristics of various wood species in relation to their compatibility with designandconstructionmethods.Students will pass safety tests prior to using any power tools and will adhere to all shop safety protocols while actively working, or assisting in any woodwork.Studentswillcompleteoneormoreprojects,fromdesigntocompletion,thatwillbefeaturedinanendofsemestergallery
Requirements NA Semestercourse-.50credit
DIGITALARTS
Photography
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Photography class provides students with a practical overview of the fundamentals of digital photography. Coursework is conducted with basic digital cameras and Apple Photos editing software. Assessments will include photo assignments, critiques, the creation of a digital portfolio and work submitted to the US Art Show and theNCScholasticArtAwards.Throughaseriesofpracticalassignmentsandstudying camera operation, composition, presentation and editing techniques, students will be encouraged todefinetheirindividualphotographystyle throughoutthesemester Students take 1 year of on-level Arts electives prior to honors enrollment; honors classes require teacher approval.
Requirements NA
Publications
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Combining elementsofgraphicsarts,writing,photography,andmarketing.InPublicationsstudentsworktogethertodesign,produce,finance, and maintain the school yearbook Shoreline and the Upper School newspaper The Hurricane Students also create slide presentations and programs for various Upper School events. Students learn to apply journalistic standards of writing, design, and photography while using a variety of software such as Adobe Creative Suite, which includes Photoshop and InDesign. With individual roles that contribute to a team goal, students explore the nuances of team management, community relations, advertising and marketing, and production organization. Minimum expectations include good writing and computer skills, the ability to set andmeetdeadlines,astrongworkethic,andtheabilityto work independently and as a team member Membership in Quill and Scroll, a national journalism organization, and attendance at the NC Scholastic Media Institute at UNC-Chapel Hill in June are encouraged. Students take 1 year of on-level Arts electives prior to honors enrollment; honors classes require teacher approval.
Requirements NA
MUSIC
Band
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Bandisaperformingwindensembleopento9th-12thgradestudentswithexperienceinwoodwinds,brass,and/orpercussion.Throughthe rehearsal/performanceprocess,studentswillimprovetheirmusicianshipskillsandtechnicalfacilityontheirinstruments,learningto contributetothedevelopmentandgrowthoftheensemble.Thisclassmayberepeatedforcredit. Honors enrollment requires participation in NCAIS Honors Band, South Eastern District Band Audition, and Pit Ensemble for the Spring Musical. Honors classes require teacher approval.
Requirements NA
VocalEnsemble
Yearcourse–1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
VocalEnsembleisaperformingchoralgroupopento9th-12thgradestudentswhohaveapassionforsinging.Studentswillimprovetheir vocaltechniqueandtheirconfidencesinginginfrontofotherswhileperformingavarietyofdifferentstylesofmusic.Mandatory performancesthroughouttheyearincludetheNationalAnthematOpeningAssembly,theannualHolidayConcert,CabaretNight,Music PerformanceAdjudication,theannualSpringConcert,andCommencement. Students take one year of on-level vocal ensemble prior to honors enrollment; honors classes require teacher approval.
RequirementsNA
Yearcourse–1.00credit
THEATER&FILM
ActingandDirecting(OfferedFall)
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
The acting element of this class includes character development, improvisation, script analysis, and performing on stage or possibly on camera. The directing element includes being able to analyze the script with an overall vision; determining style (including setting, time), concept, pace, and design; and guiding actors through scenes making sure they are understanding motives, concepts, tactics, physicality, language, etc. The beginningofthiscoursewillfocusontheactingelement,andwewillmoveintothedirection/actingcomponentlaterinthe semester.
Requirements NA
Film&Filmmaking:Mise-En-Scene,Cinematography,andEditing
SemesterCourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Throughyearsofwatching,weallunderstandtheincrediblepoweroffilmstocreateemotionalexperiences,commentontheworldinwhich welive,andtellcompellingstoriesthatsometimesexpandtheboundsofhumanimagination. Inthiscourse,studentswilllearnaboutthe techniques,practices,andtraditionsthatfilmmakersusetobuildandcommunicatetheirstoriesbystudyingworkssuchas Barbie (2023), Do the Right Thing (1989), Rear Window (1964),and The Truman Show (1998). Throughunitsfocusedonmise-en-scene,cinematography,and editing,studentswilldeveloptheirabilitiestoanalyzefilmsbothverballyandinwriting. Inaddition,studentswillhaveopportunities throughoutthecoursetopracticethefilmmakingtechniquestheystudyandcreatefilmedscenesandnarrativesoftheirown,mastering differentaspectsoffilmmakingandtheuseoffilmmakingsoftwareasthesemesterprogresses. Eachunitincludesaspecificsocialjustice theme,andstudentswillhaveopportunitiestoconsideranddiscussissuesofracialjustice,genderequity,andtheimpactofsocialmediaas theydevelopintoactiveviewersandpowerfulcreators.
Requirements NA
MusicalTheatreTechniques(OfferedSpring)
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
The Musical Theatre Techniques class explores multiple aspects of performance, music, choreography, direction, and production while also being an opportunity to share certain numbers from the upper school musical with members of the class who are not in the show. Drama Director Jennifer Avery teaches musical theater acting as well as the leadership elements of direction and choreography Alexa Skelly will intermittentlyaccompanytheclasstocoachsingingtechniquefortheatricallydrivenscenesandstyles.
Requirements NA
TechnicalTheaterandDesign
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Want to helpbuildafull-scaleBroadwayMusical?Orperhapsa40-minuteNCTCone-actplayforcompetition?Howaboutbuildinganentire house on the stage or a 450-gallon swimming pool where the audience usually sits? Then this is the class for you! Technical Theater and Design gives students a clear understanding of the ins and outs ofTechTheaterandScenicDesign,coveringalltheelementsthathelpcreate Cape Fear Academy Theater Program’s season! From Set Design and Construction, Drafting and Painting, Lighting and Sound Design through to Stage Management, Prop and Costume Building. Students design, build, and paint scenery and props for each of the sixtheater productions during the school year Part shopclass,partscenicdesignwithelementsofengineeringandpaintingthrowninforgoodmeasure, a love for creating hands-ontheaterartisamustforthisclass!Studentswillbegradedbasedonpracticalassignmentsandproject-basedtasks on a per show basis in addition to the successful completion of active participation with eachofthetheaterproductionsthroughouttheyear Students take 1 year of on-level Arts electives prior to honors enrollment; honors classes require teacher approval.
Requirements NA
TheatreMovement
YearCourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Theatre Movement is a combination of physical fitness, core strength and stamina building, stretching, and learning different dance styles found in a variety of theatrical performances. These include basic elements of jazz, tap,ballet,hiphop,andwhateverotherstylesofmusical theater are popular at the time. Stretching and core exercises are revisited throughout the semester. It is possible to take this class for one semester, first or second, or both. If you are taking both semesters, the secondsemesterwillincludemoreadvancedversionsofcertainsteps andmorecomplexchoreography ThiscoursecanapplytowardstheartsrequirementorthePErequirement(butnotboth).
Requirements NA
Semestercourse-.50credit
PHYSICALEDUCATION
WeightTraining,Fitness&Conditioning
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Physical Fitness is a keycomponentinthedevelopmentofahealthylifestyleandthebenefitsofexercisetoimprovethephysical,mental,and emotional state of a person. The aim of this course is to develop a commitment and respect for lifelong physical fitness and nutritional principles. Diverse activities and exercises are the focus areas of this course. The students will be able to apply the principles of training necessarytoimprovefitness.Thiscoursemaybetaken1-2semesters.
Requirements NA
IndependentPhysicalEducation:OutsideofCFAAthletics
Semestercourse-.50credit
1. The student must provide a written description of thephysicalactivityandtheparticipationhoursperweekforapprovalbytheDirectorof Curriculum&Instruction bytheendoftheadd/dropperiodforfullyearcreditortheJanuaryadd/dropforsecondsemestercredit.
2. The student must keep anactivity/sportjournalorrecordwhichincludesadescriptionoftheactivitywithdate(s),duration,andcompletion oftheactivity Alsoincludeapicture(i.e.,ofcompletionofamarathon),aperformanceevaluation,oracertificateofthecompletedactivity
3.Eachquartertheteacherorcoachoftheactivitymustsignoffoncompletionofparticipation.
4. Each quarter, awrittenresponsemustbewrittenandhandedinwiththecoach’ssignaturetotheUpperSchoolOfficebyDecember15thfor firstsemestercreditandbyMay15thforsecondsemestercredit.
Participation must be equivalent to a semester (.5 credit) or full-year (1 credit) of Fitness & Weight Training (210+ minutes per week).
MATH | Cape Fear Academyhasaworld-classandrigorousUpperSchoolmathematicscurriculumthatisdesigned to meet the needs of students at allabilitylevels.Wehaveacurriculumthatisfocusedonensuringthatourstudents are prepared for college math courses, AP courses, and the SAT. The four-year Math requirement takes students through therequiredAlgebra1,Geometry,andAlgebra2coursesbeforeexposingthemtochallengingmathematical electives including: Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry, AP Pre-calculus, AP Calculus AB and BC, and AP Statistics
MathDepartmentCoreCurriculum(4creditsrequired)
AlgebraI
RecommendedGrade(s) 9
This course is intended for students who have nottakenAlgebraI,orhavehadayearofalgebrabutarenotreadytomoveontoGeometryor Algebra II. Fundamentals of Algebra will be stressed. Placement will be based upon test scores and previous courseworkfornewstudents, andteacherrecommendationsforreturningstudents.
Requirements AdvancedPre-Algebra
Geometry
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10
Inthiscourse,GeometryandAlgebrareinforceeachotherthroughmultipletie-ins.Inductiveanddeductivereasoningareintroduced.Students progress gradually from informal arguments tomoreformalpresentationsofproof.Coordinateandtransformationalgeometryareinterwoven through the text. Triangle relationships, measuring in the plane and measuring in space are topics fully explored as well as reasoning and parallel lines, proving triangles congruent, working with quadrilaterals, similarity, right triangle trigonometry, and chords, secants, and tangents.
Requirements AlgebraI
HonorsGeometry
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10
This course covers the same material as described in Geometry It goes into greater depth in each of the concept areas and follows a more rigorouspace. Applicationstothephysicalandmathematicalworldarestressed. Requirements 88inHonorsAlgebra1or93inAlgebra1
Yearcourse-1.00credit
AlgebraII
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11
This coursebeginswithareviewoflinearequationsandinequalities,linearfunctions,andpolynomials.Studentswillthenstudyirrationaland complexnumbers,quadratics,polynomialfunctions,statisticsandprobability
Requirements Geometry
HonorsAlgebraII
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10
This course covers the same material asdescribedinAlgebraII.Thecoursegoesintogreaterdepthineachoftheconceptareasandfollowsa morerigorouspace.Additionaltopicsthatarecoveredincludematricesandconics.
Requirements 85inHonorsGeometryor93inGeometry
Yearcourse-1.00credit
*Honors Algebra II can be taken in 9th grade with Honors Geometry for students who qualify. A 95 or higher in Honors Algebra 1 is required and an ERB score above the 65th percentile for independent schools.
AdvancedAlgebraandTrigonometry
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
ThiscoursebeginswithareviewofAlgebraconcepts,followedbyanin-depthanalysisoffunctions,theirgraphs,andtheirinverses,including linear, polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Students will then be exposed to a thorough examination of Trigonometry They will learn to manipulate the basic trigonometric functions and identities to solve a variety of"realworld"problems.Theywillalsostudythe graphsofthetrigonometricfunctions.Honorscreditisnotavailable.
Requirements AlgebraII
DiscreteMathematics
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 12
Discrete Mathematics introduces students to the mathematics of networks, social choice, and decision-making. The course focuses on applications of matrix arithmetic and probability. Applications andmodelingarecentraltothiscourseofstudy.Appropriatetechnology,from manipulativestocalculatorsandapplicationsoftware,willbeusedregularlyforinstructionandassessment.Honorscreditisnotavailable.
Requirements AdvancedAlgebraandTrigonometryorAPPre-Calculus
APPrecalculus
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
In the Advanced Placement course for precalculus, students build a deep mastery of modeling and functions and they examine scenarios through multiple representations. They will learn how to observe,explore,andbuildmathematicalmeaningfromdynamicsystemsandapply to real life scenarios. The framework delineates content and skills commontocollegeprecalculuscoursesthatarefoundationalforcareersin mathematics, physics, biology, health science, social science, and data science. At the end ofthecoursestudentswilltakethecollegeboard examandbebetterpreparedforcollegelevelmath.
Requirements 85inHonorsAlgebraIIor85inAdvAlgebraandTrig
APCalculusAB
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
The Advanced Placement course in Calculus adheres to the statedpurposeoftheCollegeEntranceExaminationBoard.Theprogramenables students to earn college-level credit inmathwhilestillinhighschool.Italsoprovidesstudentswiththeexperienceofcollege-typeinstruction in terms of materials, methods and expectations. The course covers broad topics, including elementary functions, differential calculus and integralcalculus.
Requirements 85inAPPre-Calculus
APCalculusBC
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
This Advanced Placement course applies the content and skills learned in AP Calculus AB to parametrically defined curves, polar curves, and vector-valued functions; develops additional integration techniques and applications; and introduces the topics of sequences and series. Students will take the AP Calculus BC exam in May and will receive an AB subscore and a BCscoreforthe examwhichmayallowthemtoearncollege-levelcreditforCalculus1andCalculus2
Requirements APCalculusAB
APStatistics
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
The Advanced Placement course in statistics adheres to the statedpurposeoftheCollegeEntranceExaminationBoard.Theprogramenables students to earn college-level credit inmathwhilestillinhighschool.Italsoprovidesstudentswiththeexperienceofcollege-typeinstruction in terms of materials, methodsandexpectations.Finally,itgivesstudentsanintroductory,non-calculusbasedcourseinstatistics.Thepurpose of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools forcollecting,analyzing,anddrawingconclusionsfromdata.Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: 1) exploratory analysis, 2) planning a study, 3) probability,4)statisticalinference.Studentsin this course will observe patterns and departures from patterns, decide what to measure and how to measure it, produce models using probabilityandsimulationandconfirmmodelsthroughinferencefromdata.
Requirements 93inHonorsAlgebraII,85inAdvancedAlgebraandTrigonometry,or80inAPPre-CalculusYearcourse-1.00credit
SCIENCE | The Cape Fear Academy Science Department aims to create knowledgeable and scientifically literate problem solvers. By fostering a spiritofinquiry,nurturingourstudents’curiosity,andbringingcurrent,relevantand real-world science into the classroom experience, we prepare our students to become educated citizens capable of comprehendingandanalyzingscientificissues.
Science Department Core Curriculum (3 credits required) - Students are required to take Biology, Chemistry, and Physics To meet the Physics requirement, students maytakeanyofthefollowing:HonorsPhysics,APPhysics C:Mechanics,orAdvancedTopicsinPhysics:CoastalEngineering
Biology
RecommendedGrade(s) 9
This isanintroductiontobiologyforthehighschoolstudent.Thefundamentallifeprocessesandconceptscommontoalllivingorganismsare emphasized in this course. We study life from the simplest molecules to the ecological interactions of large populations.Topicsinthisclass include: cell structure & function, cell processes,molecularbiology,biotechnology,genetics,evolution,classification,andhumananatomy& physiology Labworkanddataanalysisisanimportantpartofthisclass.
Requirements Science8
HonorsBiology
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 9
The goals of this coursearesimilartothegoalsofbiologyandthesamebasictopicswillbecovered.Studentswillalsobeexpectedtoshowa morein-depthunderstandingofcellprocesses,morecomplexinheritancepatterns,ahighlevelofdetailofclassificationofplantsandanimals,
and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of living things and systems within the human body Writing, presentations, creating & interpretinggraphs,andindependentreadingexpectationsforthiscoursearehigh.
Requirements Inconsultationwithmiddleschoolfaculty,placementisdeterminedbasedonScience8performance(typically90orabove) andstudentERBscores.
Chemistry
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
This is an introductory course in theories and concepts of modern chemistry. This course is designed to introduce students to chemistry in interest of taking chemistry in college.. The course emphasizes the atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, properties of gasses, solutions, acid-base reactions, nuclear chemistry, and chemical thermodynamics.. The laboratory work will develop students'reasoningpower,theabilitytoapplychemicalprinciples,aswellasacquaintstudentswithchemicallaboratorytechniques.
Requirements CompletedBiologyandenrolledinGeometry
HonorsChemistry
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
This is an introductory course in theories and concepts of modern chemistry This course is designed to preparestudentsforAPandcollege chemistry. The course emphasizes the atomic and molecular structure, chemical bonding, stoichiometry, properties of gasses, solutions, reaction rates and equilibrium, acid-base reactions,andchemicalthermodynamics.Thestudentwillbeintroducedtoquantummechanics,and nuclear chemistry Honors Chemistry requires a strong background in math. ThepaceofHonorsChemistryandthemathematicalcontentis more rigorous. Laboratory activities play avitalroleinreinforcingconceptswithobtaining,evaluating,andmanipulatingdata.Tobeenrolled inHonorsChemistry,studentsmustbetakingorhavetakenAlgebraII.
Requirements 87orhigherinGeometry,77orhigherinHonorsGeometry,andenrolledinAlgebraII
HonorsPhysics
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
Honors Physics is an algebra-based, two-semester introductory college-level physics course using inquiry-based instructional strategies that focus on experiments, demonstrations, and ahands-onapproach. Studentswilldevelopconceptualunderstandingandproblem-solvingskills. Topics covered include: classical mechanics; special relativity; nuclear energy, shielding, and radiation physics; orbital mechanics; simple harmonic motion; fluid mechanics; electrostatics and electric circuits; linear optics; and modern physics topics. The laboratory programs provide students opportunities to stimulate intellectual curiosity and demonstrate criticalandcreativethinkingbasedonfoundationalphysics principles supported with physical models and engineering design. This course satisfies the physics requirement for the Engineering CertificateProgramandmeetstherequirementforgeneralphysics.
Requirements EnrolledinorcompletedAPPre-CalculusoranAinAdvAlgebraandTrig
IntroductiontoEngineering&Physics
YearCourse-1.0credits
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Thiscourseisdesignedforanystudentwishingtolearnmoreaboutthefieldofengineeringandsomeofthefundamentalconceptsfrom variousengineeringdisciplines. Ageneralknowledgeofengineeringandanumberofdesignprojectsemphasizingteamwork,problem solving,anddecisionmakinginengineeringdesignandphysicsprincipleswillbeincorporatedthroughoutthecourse.Thecoursewilldevelop yourknowledgeofgeneralphysicsandfundamentalengineeringskillstoincludecomputeraideddesign(CAD),mechanicaldrawing,the engineeringdesignprocess,trussandjointanalysis,engineeringeconomics,andengineeringethics,aswellasrobotics. Studentswillbe requiredtopresentdesignsandprojectsusingvariouscommunicationtechniques.Acoursedesignprojectwillincludetheengineeringdesign processfromconcepttofabrication;consequently,studentswillbecertifiedinthesafetyandshopprocedureswiththewoodworkingshopin theInnovationDesignCenter ThiscourseisarequiredcoursefortheEngineeringCertificateProgram.
Requirements EnrolledinAlgebra2orhigher Yearcourse-1.00credit
Note: This course is cross-listed in the Computing, Innovation, and Design department
AdvancedTopicsinPhysics:CoastalEngineering
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
Studentswillgainanunderstandingofcoastalsystems,howtheyareaffectedbynaturalandacceleratedclimatechanges,andproblem-solving strategies and design for coastal resilience. Concepts of physical oceanography, climate science, and engineering will be taught through project-basedlearning.StudentswillalsogainexperienceincollaboratingwithprofessionalsintheCapeFearregionwiththeintentofgaining real world experience through partnerships. This course is entirely project-based, it will have notests,anditmeetstheCFAGeneralPhysics requirement. Yearcourse-1.00credit
HonorsAnatomy&Physiology
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
Honors Anatomy and Physiology is an introductory college-level biology course thatwillenablestudentstodevelopanunderstandingofthe relationships between the structures and functions of the human body The curriculum provides a basis for students to develop a strong conceptual understanding of the following human body systems: integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory, endocrine, digestive, excretory, immune and reproductive. This course requires that 25 percent of the instructional time will be spent in hands-on laboratory work, with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations that provide students with opportunities to apply the science practices.
RequirementsBiologyandCompletedorEnrolledinChemistry
APBiology
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
The purpose of this course is to develop the student’sknowledgeandapplicationofadvancedbiologicalconcepts.Thiscomprehensivestudy includes biochemistry, structure and function of cells, genetics, evolution, energy transformation, plant and animal (human) anatomy, physiology, behavior and/or response, ecology, and bioethics. The required laboratories have an experimental and quantitative format. This course will follow the Advanced Placement Biology guidelines. At the completion of the course, the student will take the AP exam. The student electing to take this course should be self-disciplined and should schedule additional time for extensive reading and research. Successful completion of Biology I and Chemistry are prerequisites. Students must have the approval of the AP Committeetoenrollinthis course.Studentswillalsoberequiredattimestousetheirstudyhallforlabwork.
Requirements 83orhigherinHBiologyor90inBiology
Yearcourse-1.00credit
APChemistry (Will be offered in 2025-2026; Not offered in 2026-2027) RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
TheAPChemistrycourseisdesignedtobetheequivalentofthegeneralchemistrycourseusuallytakenduringthefirstcollegeyear AP Chemistrywillcontributetothedevelopmentofthestudents’abilitiestothinkclearlyandtoexpresstheirideas,orallyandinwriting,with clarityandlogic.Thiscourseisdesignedtoprovideasolid,first-yearcollegechemistryexperience,bothconceptuallyandinthelaboratory. Thelabsservetosupplementthelearninginthelecturesectionofthecourse.Problemsolvingskills,bothonpaperandinthelab,are emphasized.ThefollowingtopicswillbecoveredduringthisAPcourse:atomictheoryandstructure,chemicalbonding,gaslaws,kinetic theory,solutions,reactiontypes,stoichiometry,equilibrium,kinetics,andthermodynamics This course is offered in alternating years.
Requirements92.5orhigherinHChem&HAlg2 Yearcourse-1.00credit
APEnvironmentalScience
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
This course is an interdisciplinary study of the interaction between human beings andtheirenvironment.Itexaminestheeffectsofhumanity on other living organisms as well as the nonliving factors of our planet byutilizingbothphilosophicalandaninvestigativeapproach.Topics follow the AP College Board coursework and will include Ecosystems, Water Resources,Population,Soil/Agriculture,Atmosphere,Energy, Waste/Recycling, and Land Use. Students will be encouraged to “thinkglobally,actlocally”inlearninghowtoserveourcommunity,and,in turn,alsoserveourEarth.
Requirements 85orhigherinChemistryorScienceelective Yearcourse-1.00credit
APPhysicsC:Mechanics
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
This course is equivalenttoayear-long,calculus-based,college-levelphysicscoursethatwouldsupportprerequisitesforanycollegemajorin science, technology, and engineering. This course is designed, but not limited, to meet the demands of the AP Physics C (Mechanics) curriculum as published by the College Board. The courseexplorestopicssuchasthekinematicsanddynamicsofmotion;work,energy,and power; systems of particles and momentum; rotational kinematics and dynamics; oscillations; and gravitation. This course includes at least 25% of the instructional time spent on an integrated laboratory program with an emphasis on inquiry-based investigations. The laboratory programprovidesstudentsopportunitiestostimulateintellectualcuriosityanddemonstratecriticalandcreativethinkingbasedonfoundational physics principles supported with physicalmodels.Introductorydifferentialandintegralcalculusisusedthroughoutthecourseandlaboratory program.StudentsareexpectedtotaketheAPPhysicsCexaminMay This course may also be taken for math credit at CFA.
RequirementsCompletionofAPCalculusABorAPCalculusABBC Yearcourse-1.00credit
AdvancedTopics:EngineeringDesign
RecommendedGrade 12
EngineeringDesignbuildsontheknowledgeandskillsdevelopedthroughouttheengineeringcertificateprogramusingtheengineeringdesign process to design a solution for a client-based requirement. Thisfall-semestercoursewillmakeuseofengineeringtoolstoincludeadvanced topics in computeraideddesign,3Dprinting,mechanicaldrawings,experimentation,andfabricationstoaddressadesignproposal. Aspartof the engineering design process, students will consider social, political, economic, technical, environmental,legal,andethicalaspectsoftheir design exploiting their CFA scholarly experience while conducting necessary research. The courseculminateswithadesignproposalthatis fabricated in the CFA Innovation Center and presented to the client and the public. Consequently,allstudentswillbecertifiedinwoodshop safetyandprocedures. ThiscoursesatisfiesthedesignrequirementfortheEngineeringCertificateProgram.
Requirements CompletionofIntrotoEngineering&Physics Semestercourse-.50credit Fallsemesterof10,11,12thgradeyear-0.50credits
AdvancedTopics:ElectromagnetismandCircuits
RecommendedGrade 12
Electromagnetism the relationship between electricityandmagnetism istheunderlyingprinciplefortheoperationofelectricmotors,as well as generators,and transformers. Electromagnetism is all aroundus. Everytimeweturnonaswitch,orwepressakeyonakeyboard,or we use any electrical device it is electromagnetism and circuits that make it work. Electromagnetism and circuits are foundational technologies that permeate nearly every engineering discipline. This course is an algebra-based, spring-semester only, introductory college-level physics course using inquiry-based instructional strategies thatfocusonexperiments,demonstrations,andahands-onapproach. Topics include electrostatics, magnetic fields, electromagnetic induction, DC and AC circuits, and the electromagnetic properties of matter The laboratory component is an introduction to electronicswherestudentswilldevelopskillsinbuilding,analyzing,anddebuggingelectrical circuits. ThiscourseisrequiredfortheEngineeringCertificateProgram.
Requirements CompletedorEnrolledinHPhysicsorAPPhysicsC(Mechanics) Semestercourse-0.50credits Springsemestercourseof10,11,12thgradeyear-0.50credits
Biotechnology
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
This course is designed to giveanoverviewofcurrentdevelopmentsinthefieldofbiotechnologyaswellastheethicalconsiderationsaround these developments. Students will develop an understanding of the molecular processes involved in many applications as well as the lab techniques involved in these applications. Molecular processes include basic biochemistry, genetic engineering using CRISPR, Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and the use of restriction enzymes. Major topics include Applications in Medicine - testing and treatment ofdiseases,ApplicationsinAgriculture-useofgeneticmodificationsandcloningtomakefoodcheaperand reduce the impact on the environment, Other Applications in Environmental Impact-fightingclimatechange,reducingwaste,andremoving toxins, and Applications in Industry including the use of enzymes in a variety of fields, artificial intelligence, synthetic organisms, and bioinformatics(usingcomputerstoprocesslargeamountsofbiologicaldata).
Requirements Biology Yearcourse-1.00credit
Note: This course is cross-listed in the Computing, Innovation, and Design department
MarineScience
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
Thiscourseisdesignedtostudymarineorganismsandtheinterrelatedprocesseswithinthemarineenvironment.Geological,physical,and chemical,oceanographyinfluencethebiologyandecologyofmarinelife.Hydrothermalvents,mid-oceanicridges,beaches,marshes,waves, tides,salinity,pH,dissolvedoxygen,etc.allaffectthediversityofmarineorganismsonthe"BluePlanet".Theevolutionandclassificationof
marineinvertebrates,vertebrates,andalgae/seaweedswillbeinvestigated.Studentswillberesponsibleforsettingupandmaintainingseveral salt-wateraquariums.Thepositiveandnegativeeffectsofhumanactivityonourcoastalenvironmentwillbeexaminedbyclassdiscussions, constructionofmodelsandonfieldtrips.
RequirementsBiologyandCompletedorEnrolledinChemistry
Zoology(AnimalScience)
Semestercourse-.50credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
This course isanintroductiontothestudyofzoologywithafocusonanimalsnativetoNorthCarolina.Studentswillgainanunderstandingof the diversity ofanimallifeintheregion,includingtheirevolution,behavior,ecology,andconservation.Thecoursewillincludeacombination of lectures, lab assignments, and frequent field trips and hikes to observe and study animals in their natural habitats. Through hands-on learning, students will develop a deep appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the natural world and gain a strong foundation in the principlesofzoology.
Requirements Biology
Semestercourse-.50credit
SOCIAL STUDIES | The Upper School Social Studies Department at Cape Fear Academy seeks to provide students with the knowledge and skills they will need to become informed and involved citizens of their local, national, and global communities. The social studies curriculum is designed to promote collaboration and develop students’ critical and creative thinking skills with attention to meetingtheneedsofdiverselearners.Anemphasisis placed on developing skills such as source analysis, the construction of an argument, oral expression, and responsible decision-making. The department’s ultimategoalistopreparestudentsforthecomplexitiesoftheworld theyliveinbyinstillinginthemanawareness,understanding,appreciation,andcompassionforothers.
SocialStudiesDepartmentCoreCurriculum(3creditsrequired)
CivicsandEconomics RecommendedGrade(s) 9
In this course, students will acquire the skillsandknowledgeneededtobecomeresponsibleandeffectivecitizensinaninterdependentworld. Students will examine the meaning of citizenship in the United States, as well as their role as global citizens. Basic political, legal, and electoral systemswillbeexaminedwithafocusonthefoundingprinciplesanddocumentsofthe U.S.systemofgovernment.Thiscoursewill also provide students with an understanding of basic economic principles to help them comprehend their roleasconsumers,andtherolethe United States plays intheglobaleconomy Studentswill read,analyze,anddiscussavarietyofsources;beencouragedtothinkcritically;and tomakeanddefenddecisionswithclearreasoningandevidence. Thiscoursesatisfiesthegovernmentrequirementforgraduation.
Requirements SocialStudies8 Yearcourse-1.00credit
HonorsCivicsandEconomics
RecommendedGrade(s) 9
In this course, students will acquire the skillsandknowledgeneededtobecomeresponsibleandeffectivecitizensinaninterdependentworld. Students will examine the meaning of citizenship in the United States, as well as their role as global citizens. Basic political, legal, and electoral systemswillbeexaminedwithafocusonthefoundingprinciplesanddocumentsofthe U.S.systemofgovernment.Thiscoursewill also provide students with an understanding of basic economic principles to help them comprehend their roleasconsumers,andtherolethe United States plays intheglobaleconomy.Studentswill read,analyze,anddiscussavarietyofsources;beencouragedtothinkcritically;and to make and defend decisions with clear reasoning andevidence.Thishonorsclassplacesaheavyfocusoncriticalreadingandwritinginthe contentarea.Thiscoursesatisfiesthegovernmentrequirementforgraduation.
RequirementsInconsultationwithmiddleschoolfaculty,placementisdeterminedbasedonSocialStudies8performance(typically90or above)andstudentERBscores.
WorldHistory
Yearcourse–1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10
This course is designed to help students develop a global perspective on the past by exploring the history of humanity The course uses a thematic rather than a chronological approach. Organizing a history curriculum by theme allows students to explore a theme and how it develops over time rather than simply presenting history as a series of events that happened at the same time. Additionally, a thematic approach allowsstudentstomakestrongerconnectionsbetweenthepresentandthepastwiththegoalofincreasinghistory’srelevancetotheir daily lives. Thematic units include: Humans & the Environment, SystemsofBelief,Power&Authority,Conflict,andRevolution&Reform. Using this approach, an emphasis isplacedondevelopingstudents’historicalthinkingskillsandhelpingthemgainagreaterawarenessofthe commonalities that can be discovered through a study of the human experience. Students are required to take a course in World History in ordertograduate.
Requirements Civics&Economics
APWorldHistory
Yearcourse–1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) 10
The Advanced Placement course provides students with a survey course on the history of the world. The primary intent of the AP World History course istoteachthehistoryoftheworldfromatrulyglobalstanceratherthanfromthedominantperspectiveofWesterncivilization. This approach therefore places emphasis on worldwide historical processesandconnectionsamongthewholegamutofhumansocieties.The course is organized by five defining time periods, not by geographical areas and presents a survey of themajorpatternsseengloballyinthe past. Five themes are used to organize the vast amountofmaterialincludedinthecourseandtohelpstudentsmakeconnectionsbetweenone period and the next. These themes include: interaction between humans and the environment; development and interaction of cultures; state-building, expansion, and conflict; creation, expansion, and interaction of economic systems; and development and transformation of socialstructures.
Requirements 93inCivics&Econ;or90inHCivics&Econ Yearcourse–1.00credit
UnitedStatesHistory
RecommendedGrade(s) 11
This course surveys the history of the United States from 1865 tothepresent.ThecoursebeginswiththepostCivilWarReconstructionEra, the Agricultural RevolutionontheGreatPlains,andtheIndustrialRevolutionintheEast. ThedisplacementandforcedassimilationofNative Americans, the rapid urbanization and its accompanying struggles, the flood of immigration to the U.S., rise of nativism, and deepening involvement in overseas adventures are addressed in this period. The Age of Progressivism, the upheaval of two world wars, and the economic miseries of the Depression give depth to our understanding of the present post-war period, including the Korean and Vietnam conflicts,Watergate,andtheensuingyearsofrecovery StudentsarerequiredtotakeacourseinU.S.Historyinordertograduate.
RequirementsCivics&EconomicsandWorldHistory Yearcourse-1.00credit
APU.S.History
RecommendedGrade(s) 11
The Advanced Placement United States History course provides students with the skills and factual information necessary to assimilate information and the critical historical thinking skills that will prepare students to take the national examination in AP UnitedStatesHistory and complete college level coursework. The course begins withthearrivalofnativesontheAmericancontinentsandproceedstothemodern era. In this course, students will learn historical thinking skills, and developtheirabilitytocriticallyanalyzeprimarysourcessuchasdiaries, letters, speeches, political cartoons, tables, maps, and graphs. Course content and the related historical concepts are based on key themes: National Identity and Citizenship, America on the World Stage, Politics, and Power, Ideas, Beliefs and Culture, and Peopling.Studentswill also develop writingskillsthatwillenablethemtocraftavarietyofanalyticalandinterpretiveresponsestodocument-basedandfreeresponse questionsonthenationalexamination.
Requirements: 80inAPWorldHistoryor90inWorldHistory
APU.S.GovernmentandPolitics
Yearcourse-1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) *11,12
AP U.S. Government and Politics provides a college-level, nonpartisan introduction to key political concepts, ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles, and behaviors thatcharacterizetheconstitutionalsystemandpoliticalcultureoftheUnitedStates.StudentswillstudyU.S. foundational documents, Supreme Court decisions, and other texts and visuals to gain an understanding of therelationshipsandinteractions among political institutions, processes, and behaviors. They will also engage in disciplinary practices that require themtoreadandinterpret data, make comparisons and applications, and develop evidence-based arguments. This course can be taken to meet the government requirement for graduation for thoseenteringCFAafter10thgrade. ItisrecommendedthatstudentscompleteacourseinU.S.Historybefore enrolling in this course. *Registration priority will be given to 12th grade students who meet the recommended grade. This course may be offered in alternating years.
Requirements:80inAPWorldHistoryorAPU.S.History;or90inWorldorU.S.History Yearcourse-1.00credit
APHumanGeography
RecommendedGrade(s): *11,12
The Advanced Placement Human Geography (APHG) course introduces students to the systematic studyofpatternsandprocessesthathave shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and its environmental consequences. In addition, the course exposes students to economic theories and models, world religion, and the origins and diffusion of languages. Students study urban development, industrialization, and city planning and learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice. It is an excellent course for preparing students to become geo-literate and consider problems and solutions that the world faces in the 21st Century. *Registration priority will be given to 12th grade students who meet the recommended grade.This course may be offered in alternating years.
Requirements:80inAPWorldorAPU.S.History; 90inWorldorU.S.History
APPsychology
Yearcourse–1.00credit
RecommendedGrade(s) *11,12
The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of humanbeingsandotheranimals.Studentsareexposedtothepsychologicalfacts,principles,andphenomenaassociatedwitheachofthemajor subfields within psychology They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in theirscienceandpractice.Topicscoveredin AP Psychology include the following: History and Approaches, Research Methods, Biological BasesofBehavior,SensationandPerception, States of Consciousness, Learning, Cognition, Motivation and Emotion, Developmental Psychology, Personality, Testing and Individual Differences, Abnormal Behavior and its treatment, and Social Psychology *Registration priority will be given to 12th grade students who meet the recommended grade. This course may be offered in alternating years.
Requirements:80inAPWorldorAPU.S.History;90inWorldorU.S.History
Yearcourse–1.00credit
WORLD LANGUAGES | The World Language Department at Cape Fear Academy provides students with the opportunity to develop both cultural and linguistic competence in the modern world languages of Spanish and Mandarin Chinese Our talented instructors use a variety of teaching styles and methodologies to build target language proficiency within and to enhance the learning experience for the student All world language courses at CFA fulfi study thereof Mandarin
MandarinChinese Grade(s) 9,10, 1, Mandarin I is an introductory course designed to build a strong foundation in the language and encourage continued Mandarin learning. Students will begin with the fundamentals,includingthePinyinromanizationsystemandChinesecharacterwriting.Bytheendofthecourse, students will be abletouseover100essentialChinesewordsandkeygrammarstructures(suchashowtoformyes/noquestions)toengagein conversational topics related to daily life, including greetings, family, time, dates, and hobbies. Alongside language skills, students will explore cultural traditions (such as how to respectfully ask for someone's name) to deepen their understanding of the Chinese languageand culture. The course also includes a variety of engaging cultural experiences, such asourannualtriptoCarytocelebratetheLunarNewYear with a hot pot lunch and Asian grocery shopping excursion, Chinese calligraphy, a Chinese tea ceremony, Asian snack tasting, and other activitiestailoredtotheinterestsoftheclass.
Requirements Entry-levelMandarin Newstudents:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment
Yearcourse-1.00credit
MandarinChineseII
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Mandarin II builds upon the foundation of Mandarin I. In this course, students will expand their vocabulary by learning over 150 essential words and related grammar structures (such as describing how an action is performed) to enhance their ability to communicate in real-life situations, includingtopicssuchasvisitingfriends,makingappointments,studyingChinese,andtalkingaboutschoollife.Throughinteractive activities, students will practice their language skills by creatingdialogues,producinga'MyDay'vlog,andengaginginothercommunicative tasks. Throughout thecourse,studentswillalsoexploreandcomparevariousaspectsofChineseculture,suchasthedailyroutineofaChinese student, customs for being a good guestinChina,andotherculturalpractices.Thecourseincludesavarietyofengagingculturalexperiences, such as our annual trip to Cary to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a hot pot lunch and Asian grocery shopping, Chinese calligraphy, a Mid-AutumnFestivalcelebration,andotheractivitiestailoredtotheclass'sinterests.
Requirements Mandarin1Newstudent:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse-1.00credit
HonorsMandarinChineseIII
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
H Mandarin III builds upon the strong foundation established in Mandarin I and II. In this course,studentswilllearnover160newChinese words and related grammar patterns (such as comparisons), significantly enhancing their ability tocommunicateinreal-worldsituations.By the end ofthecourse,studentswillbeabletodiscusstopicssuchasshopping,transportation,weather,anddining.Eachlessonprovidesample opportunities for real-lifeconversationsandactivities,whilealsoexploringaspectsofChinesecultureandsociety(suchasChina’shigh-speed rail system) to deepen both linguistic and cultural understanding. The course offers a varietyofengagingculturalexperiences,includingour annual trip to Cary to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a hot pot lunch and Asian grocery shopping, Chinese calligraphy, and other fun activitiestailoredtotheclass’sinterests.
Requirements Mandarin2 Newstudent:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse-1.00credit
HonorsMandarinChineseIV
RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
H Mandarin IV is designed for students who want to take their Mandarin learning to the next level andpreparesthemforadvancedcourses such as Honors Mandarin V In this course, students will expand their language abilities by engaging with real-life topics such as dating, renting an apartment, sports, and travel in Mandarin. Theywilllearnover140newvocabularywordsandmoreadvancedgrammarstructures (such as how to describe past events). Alongside language skills, students willgaindeeperculturalinsightsthroughsubjectssuchasChinese dating culture and trip preparation to China. The course also includes a variety of engaging cultural experiences, such as our annual trip to Cary to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a hot pot lunch and Asian grocery shopping, Chinese calligraphy,andotheractivitiestailoredto theinterestsoftheclass.
RequirementsHMandarinIII Newstudent:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse-1.00credit
HonorsMandarinChineseV
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
H Mandarin V builds upon the foundation of Mandarin IV,coveringfamiliartopicssuchasthestartoftheschoolyear,dormlife,dining,and shopping, but with higher language expectations and deeper cultural exploration. For instance, beyond ordering food, students will discuss dietary preferences,comparetastedifferences,andexamineculturalandenvironmentalinfluencesonregionalChinesecuisines.Grammarand vocabulary are thematically introduced to help students achieve real-life communicative needs through reading, writing, speaking, and listening while developing higher-level thinking skills. The course also includesavarietyofrichculturalexperiences,suchasourannualtrip to Cary to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a hot pot lunch and Asian grocery shopping, as well as other activities tailored to theclass’s intereststhatfosterastrongsenseofcommunity
RequirementsHMandarinIV Newstudent:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse–1.00credit
APChineseLanguageandCulture
RecommendedGrade(s) 12
AP Chinese is designed for students who want to continue their Mandarin learningbeyondHonorsMandarinVandpreparethemforfurther studies in college and beyond. The course is organized around six thematicunits:FamiliesinDifferentSocieties,TheInfluenceofLanguage and Culture on Identity, Influences of Beauty and Art, How Science and Technology Affect Our Lives, Factors That Impact the Quality of Life, and Environmental, Political, and SocietalChallenges.Throughadiverseselectionofteacher-curatedmaterials,authenticmaterials,and AP classroom practices, students will significantly enhance their reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills while deepening their understanding of Chinese culture and society in preparation for the AP exam. Alongside language development, students will participate in cultural experiences such as our annual trip to Cary to celebrate the Lunar New Year with a hot pot lunch and Asian grocery shopping, Chinesecalligraphy,andotheractivitiesthatarebothenjoyableandrelevanttoAPpreparation.
Requirements HonorsMandarinVNewstudent:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse–1.00credit
Spanish
SpanishI
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
This course is designed for the novice learner with the aim of providing a strongfoundationintheSpanishlanguageforthecontinuedstudy thereof. Vocabulary units have been carefully selected so thattheymayhavebothpracticalandreal-lifeapplications.Thegrammarpresented in this course coincides with the chosen vocabulary themes and offers students the tools to begin communicating in Spanish bothinspeech and writing. Cultural and thematic material presented throughout the course will allow for students to explore, make connections with, and appreciate the varietyofpractices,products,andperspectivesfoundthroughouttheSpanish-speakingworld.Finally,coupledwithexposureto a variety of authentic readings and multimedia selections, students will begin efforts to establish effective strategies for developing their readingandlisteningcomprehensionskills.
Requirements EntrylevelSpanish or studentdoesnotmeettheminimumrequirementforSpanishII Yearcourse-1.00credit
SpanishII
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Thiscourseisdesignedforthenovice-midtonovice-highlearnerwhosecontinuedsuccesswillrelybothonthesolidityofthelearner’s foundationbuiltinSpanishIaswellastheircontinuedmotivationtolearnthelanguage.Vocabularyunitshavebeencarefullyselectedsothat theymayhavebothpracticalandreal-lifeapplicationsthatexpanduponearlierlearning.Asstudentsbuildtheirvocabularyinthiscourse, theywillalsobeintroducedtoincreasinglydifficultgrammarconcepts,includingbutnotlimitedtosimpleandimperfectpasttenses.Together thesewillaffordthestudentstheabilitytofurtherexpressthemselvesinspeechandwritingtonotonlydosointhepresenttime,butalsoin thepast.StudentswillbeencouragedtospeakmoreSpanishasthepercentageofSpanishtheyhearwillalsoincrease.Culturalandthematic materialpresentedthroughoutthecoursewillallowforstudentstoexplore,makeconnectionswith,andappreciatethevarietyofpractices, products,andperspectivesfoundthroughouttheSpanish-speakingworld.Finally,withcontinuedexposuretoavarietyofauthenticreadings andmultimediaselections,studentswillresumetheireffortstoachievecompetenceinbothreadingandwriting.
Requirements USSpanish1 or ≥90inMSSpanish6and7;Newstudents:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse-1.00credit
HonorsSpanishIII
RecommendedGrade(s) 9,10,11,12
Thiscourseisdesignedfortheintermediate-lowlearnerwhosecontinuedsuccesswillrelybothonthesolidityofthelearner’sfoundationbuilt in Spanish I and II as well astheircontinuedmotivationtolearnthelanguage.Vocabularyunitshavebeencarefullyselectedsothattheymay have both practicalandreal-lifeapplicationsthatexpanduponearlierlearning.Asstudentsbuildtheirvocabularyinthiscourse,theywillalso be introduced to increasingly difficult grammar concepts including but not limited to compound tenses suchasthepresentperfectaswellas complex structures like the present subjunctive. These higher levelstructureswillaffordthestudentstheabilitytofurtherexpressthemselves in speech and writing to include what they have done as well as offer opinionsandrecommendationsastheyrelatetoourthematicunits. In this course, students will be encouraged to speak moreSpanishasthepercentageofSpanishtheyhearwillalsoincrease.Formalassessments will have more open-ended activities in order to focusonlanguageproficiency Finally,studentsareencouragedtoexpandtheirlanguageuse outsideoftheclassroombyparticipatinginbroader,richerSpanish-speakingcommunities.
RequirementsUSSpanish2 or ≥90inMSSpanish8;Newstudents:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment
Yearcourse-1.00credit
HonorsSpanishIV RecommendedGrade(s) 10,11,12
This course is designed for the intermediate-mid learner whose continued success will rely both on the solidity of the learner’s foundation built in Spanish I through III as well astheircontinuedmotivationtolearnthelanguage.Inthiscourse,studentswillparticipateindiscussion topics, role-plays, interviews, oral presentations, and other communicative activities in which students can demonstrate what they have learned. In addition to oral skills, written communication skills are strengthened through an array of practical and creative writing tasks. Grammar points learned in earlier levels will be fine-tuned for the purpose of communication. Cultural and thematic material presented throughout the course will also allow for students to expand their cultural competence as they communicate/ Formal assessments will have more open-ended activities in ordertofocusonlanguageproficiency Finally,studentsareencouragedtoexpandtheirlanguageuseoutsideof the classroom by participating in broader, richer Spanish-speaking communities. This course preparesstudentsfortheAPSpanishLanguage course.
Requirements HonorsSpanish3;Newstudents:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse-1.00credit
APSpanishLanguageandCulture
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
This course is designed for the intermediate-mid to intermediate-high learners whose continued success will rely both on the solidity ofthe learner’s foundation built in Spanish I through IV Students in this course should be passionate about Spanish and have adesiretocontinue their studies of the language and culture as a lifelong skill, as well as for preparation for college placement tests, college courses,extended study abroad, and beyond.Uponcompletionofthiscourse,studentsareexpectedtotaketheAPexam.TheAPSpanishLanguageandCulture course emphasizes communication (as defined as: understanding andbeingunderstoodbyothers)byapplyinginterpersonal,interpretive,and presentational skills in real-life situations. Although the course gives students the chancetoreview,finetune,andexpandthelanguageskills they have developedoverthepreviousfourormoreyearsofstudy,itshallstrivenottooveremphasizegrammaticalaccuracyattheexpenseof communication. The course engagesstudentsinanexplorationofavarietyofAPidentifiedthemes:(1)familiesandcommunities,(2)science and technology, (3) beauty and aesthetics, (4) contemporary life, (5) global challenges, and (6) personal and public identities. Additionally, the course develops students’ awareness and appreciation of cultural products (e.g. tools, books, music, laws, conventions, institutions); practices (patterns of social interactions within a culture); and perspectives (values, attitudes, and assumptions) as they relate to the six aforementioned themes.Withtheuseofauthentictext,audio,andvideosources,studentswillbeexposedtoawealthofmaterialforstudyand discussion all the while developing their own communication skills and demonstrating deeper understandingofculture.Tobestfacilitatethe studyoflanguageandculture,thecourseistaughtalmostexclusivelyinSpanish.
Requirements HonorsSpanish4;Newstudents:Placementtestadministereduponenrollment Yearcourse-1.00credit
APSpanishLiteratureandCulture
RecommendedGrade(s) 12
This course is designed for the intermediate-high learner whose continued success will rely both on the solidity of the learner’s foundation built in Spanish IthroughAPLanguage.StudentsinthiscourseshouldbepassionateaboutSpanishandhaveadesiretocontinuetheirstudies of the language and culture as a lifelong skill, as well as for preparation for collegeplacementtests,collegecourses,extendedstudyabroad, and beyond. Upon completion ofthiscourse,studentsareexpectedtotaketheAPexam.TheAPSpanishLiteratureandCulturecourseusesa thematic approach to introduce students to representative texts (short stories, novels, poetry, and essays) from Peninsular Spanish, Latin American, and Hispanic American literature, all ranging from medieval to contemporary times. Students develop proficiency acrossthefull range of communicative modes (interpersonal, presentational, and interpretive), thereby honing their critical reading and analytical writing skills.Literatureisexaminedwithinthecontextofitstimeandplace,asstudentsreflectonthemanyvoicesandculturespresentintherequired readings.The course also includes a strong focus on cultural connections and comparisons, including exploration of various media(e.g.,art, film, articles, literary criticism). Students are assessed on works from the required reading list in both the interpretive and presentational modesofcommunicationandstudents’abilitytoanalyzeliteratureincontext.
RequirementsAPSpanishLanguage&Culturewitha3orhigherontheAPexam;Newstudents:Placementtestadministeredupon enrollment Yearcourse–1.00credit
AdvancedTopicsinSpanishConversation
RecommendedGrade(s) 11,12
This course is appropriate for students whowishtocontinuebuildingskillsinspeakingandwriting.Throughspecialtopicsofinteresttoboth the students and teacher, this course will provide vocabulary enrichment as well as opportunities to speak and write extensively inSpanish. Upon completion, students will be able to discuss selected topics, express ideas and opinions clearly, and engage in formal and informal conversations and written tasks. Knowledge of grammatical structures presented in Honors Spanish IIIandHonorsIVisexpected.Lectures, discussions,andreadingandviewingmaterialsforthiscoursewillbeinSpanish.
Requirements HonorsSpanish4orhigher
Semestercourse-0.50creditorfullyear1.00credit
CFAEngineeringandAdvancedEngineeringCertificateProgram
CFAisprovidingstudentstheopportunitytoconsidertheexcitingworldofengineeringbycreatinganEngineeringCertificate Program(ECP)andanAdvancedEngineeringCertificateProgram(AECP)
1 ToobtainaCFAEngineeringCertificateorAdvancedEngineeringCertificatewithyourdiplomaastudentmust:
● CompleterequiredcourseswithaBorbetter.
● Completeaminimumof2creditsofCertificateElectivesfromanapprovedlistmaintainingagradeofBorbetter ineachelective
● Completeasemester-long(year-longispreferred)researchanddesignprojectwithaBorbetter
● Maintainaprofessionalelectronicjournal
● ParticipateinanExperientialActivityandcompletejournalentriesasappropriate.
2 StudentsarerequiredtocompletethefollowingcoursesfortheECPandAECP:
● IntroductiontoEngineering&Physics(1credit)
● HonorsPhysicsorAPPhysicsC(1credit) Prerequisite: IntroductiontoEngineering&Physics
● AdvancedTopics: ElectromagnetismandCircuits(05creditsSpringSemesteronly)Corequisite: HonorsPhysicsor APPhysicsC
StudentsdesiringtheAECPmustcomplete:
● APCalculusABorAPCalculusBC(1credit)
3. Studentsarerequiredtocompletearesearchanddesignproject. Studentscanachievetherequirementforresearchand designthroughoneofthreeways:
(1) AdvancedTopics: EngineeringDesign(05creditsFallSemesteronly)
(2) ApprovedIndependentResearchwithanadvisor(05to1credits)
(3) APSeminarandAPResearchcourses(2credits)
Anyresearchanddesigncreditsbeyond05creditscancounttowardthe2creditsofEngineeringElectives
4 Studentsarerequiredtocomplete2creditsofEngineeringElectivesfromthefollowingapprovedlist
Math
● APStatistics
● MathbeyondAPCalculusBC Science
● AdvancedTopicsPhysics:Coastal Engineering
● APBiology
● APChemistry
● Biotechnology
SocialScience&Arts
● APHumanGeography
● TechnicalTheaterandDesign
● APArt&Design
● 2DArtFoundations
● Drawing
● 3DArtFoundations
● Ceramics
● Woodworking&Design
APSeminar
APResearch(canbetakeninlieuofEngineering DesignCourse)
ComputerScience
● IntroductiontoComputing,Innovation,and Design
● AppliedComputing,Innovation,andDesign
● IntrotoRobotics
● Entrepreneurship:ProductDesign& Fabrication
● APComputerScienceA
● APComputerSciencePrinciples
● AdvancedTopics:APPDevelopment&Cyber Security
● AI andMachineLearningforEveryone
CFAmayallowstudentstoenrollinpre-approvedandaccreditedonlinecoursesfollowingconsultationwiththe UpperSchoolDirectorandDirectorofCurriculumandInstruction.Recentcourseenrollmentshavebeenthroughthe IndependentStudyProgram(highschool)atBrighamYoungUniversityandtheNorthCarolinaVirtualAcademy If youareinterestedinpursuingonlinecoursework,pleasecontactonlinecoursementorMs Clammeat bclamme@capefearacademyorg
Moreinformationaboutonlinecourses:
● Studentsmaynottakeanonlinecourseifit'soneofferedcurrentlyatCFA
● CoursecostsarenotincludedinCFAtuition,andthecoursesareanadditionalcharge Onlinecourse availabilityandpricingaresubjecttochange
● Onlinecourselettergradeswillberetainedaspartofastudent’spermanentrecord
● OnlinecourseworkcountstowardacademiccreditsbutdoesnotcounttowardthetranscriptGPAs
● AllonlinecourserequestsmustbeapprovedbyaCollegeCounselorandUpperSchoolDirector
● YouwillhaveaCFAonlinecoursementorthroughoutthedurationoftheonlinecourse.
● Onlinesemestercoursesmustbecompletedinthesemestertheyaretakenwithatleast50%ofthecourse completedinthefirstquarterandtheentirecoursecompletedoneweekbeforetheendofSemester1orby April30thforSemester2.
● Onlineyear-longcoursesmusthaveatleast25%ofthecoursecompletedeachquarterandtheentirecourse completedbyApril30th.
.
Collegeadmissions(inregardstoonlineclasswork):
Rigorisofutmostimportancewhencollegesevaluateanapplicant’stranscript.Collegesanduniversitiesview coursesinthefollowingorderofpreference:
● Coursestaughtatthestudent’ssecondaryinstitution(withhonorsandadvancedplacementprovidingthe highestrigorthatcollegesseek)
● Coursestakenthroughtheuniversityorcommunitycollege
● Coursestakenthroughanonlineprovider
LearningBeyondtheClassroom-IndependentStudy
The Upper School Independent Study program is an outgrowth of CFA’s commitment to “discovering and developing individual potential” and developing a community of independent learners A student with a strong interest in a subject not offered by Cape Fear Academy may propose an independent study. Each proposal must include:
1. Asummaryofobjectives
2. A signed independent study agreement with a school facilitator/mentor, the student, the college counselor, andtheDirectorofUpperSchool.
3. All independent studies classes must meetthecriterialistedintheIndependentStudyGuidelines(Appendix A)
4. StudentsarepermittedtoonlytakeoneonlineandoneIndependentStudyclasspersemester.
